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Lounge in private cabanas or play in the sand at Okana’s tropical-inspired beach.

Featured Article

An Endless Water Adventure

Okana Resort is a year-round, family-friendly destination with thrilling water attractions, cultural touches, and luxurious amenities in Oklahoma City.

Article by Gabi De la Rosa

Photography by Photo courtesy of Okana Resort & Waterpark

Originally published in Memorial Lifestyle

Okana Resort and Indoor Waterpark is a sprawling, state-of-the-art destination devoted entirely to water-fueled excitement. Located in the heart of Oklahoma City, the family-friendly attraction boasts the fourth-largest pool in the country and the region's largest indoor waterpark at an impressive 100,000 square feet. Okana is also home to the steepest water coaster drop in the U.S., making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers. 

Owned and operated by the Chickasaw Nation, the resort takes its name from the Chickasaw words Okah (water) and Ikana (friend). As the only tribal-owned resort in the city, guests will find thoughtful nods throughout the property to Oklahoma's 39 tribal nations. From the moment they arrive, guests are ushered into the brightly colored lobby with a welcome drink and snack, where two larger-than-life murals by First American artists set the tone for a culturally rich experience. 

Indoor Waterpark 

Set at a balmy 82 degrees, Okana's indoor waterpark is ready to welcome visitors year-round. Featuring 15 slides, a surfing simulator, lazy river, and wave pool, there is no shortage of thrills. There are also separate areas dedicated to young children and adults 21+, ensuring something for every age group. When it's time to relax, guests can grab a bite from the concession stands, lounge in the ample seating, or unwind in a private cabana. 

Okana Beach 

Open for summer fun on Memorial Day, Okana Beach is the place to be for outdoor water-filled fun. Despite large crowds, the expansive pool feels endless, making it easy to enjoy plenty of room with family and friends. The white sand beach, made from 90 truckloads of imported sand, adds to the tropical vibes. Guests can choose to lounge in rows of sun chairs lining the water's edge or rent one of nearly 30 private cabanas, each with its own ceiling fan, television, and curtains to fully enclose the space for more privacy.

While kids burn off energy on outdoor attractions like an inflatable obstacle course, zipline, slides, and diving boards, adults can unwind in a dedicated 21+ pool or sip cocktails at the swim-up bar designed just for grown-ups.

Even More Amenities

The resort offers plenty beyond the water attractions, including a massive 20,000-square-foot family entertainment zone with an arcade, VR experiences, laser tag, and great prizes. Those looking for relaxation can visit the resort's full-service spa, which features a full menu of beauty and spa treatments, including massage and facials. 

At the Dock Shop, one of the resort's on-site boutiques, guests can browse a selection of gifts and souvenirs. Many items are sourced from First American and local Oklahoma businesses, making it easy to support the region's artisans and makers

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Sip & Savor 

When hunger strikes, there are 13 on-site dining spots to choose from. Highlights include Jack Rabbit, a gastropub serving elevated twists on comfort food, and Smokehouse Social, known for crowd-pleasers like smoked pork ribs and burnt-end queso. Chido's offers delicious Tex-Mex, and the popular Okana Candy Co. serves up sweet treats, including premium ice cream and Bedré Fine Chocolates.

Accommodations

Those staying overnight can choose from 10 different room and suite styles ranging from 420 to 720 square feet. Each features Native American-inspired design elements, including woven headboards and art, large-screen TVs, and views of the Oklahoma River, Okana Beach, or city skyline. okanaresort.com